Starting a Nano FOWLR Tank? (Checklist)

[RAWRRitsEDWINN]

Didn't know whether to post this in the Nano Reef section or here, so I chose here.

Hi guys. I have decided to start a Nano FOWLR tank, and then convert it to a Reef tank once I get more experiened with the FOWLR tank.

Here is a checklist of what I know I am going to get, or think I am going to get. If you have any suggestions, please let me know. I am on a tight budget.

Also, as of right now, I will not be using a sump, unless I really have to. Also, I will not be added a protein skimmer until after I add my fish, unless you all suggest to add the skimmer when I set up everything else.

The tank I decided to do this all on is a 20g long tank. (12-1/2"L x 30-1/4"W x 13"H)

Tank: Top Fin® 20 Gallon Glass Aquarium (http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=11164157&lmdn=Fish+Aquariums+%26amp%3B+Bowls)

Filter: Undecided between these. I have decided on either the Marineland Emperor 400 Filter (http://www.petco.com/Shop/Product.aspx?sku=226831) or making my own fuge with an AquaClear 70 following this DIY (http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=601201&highlight=how+to+DIY+an). Please let me know which would be best.

Heater: Aqueon Submersible Aquarium Heater (http://www.petco.com/Shop/Product.aspx?sku=1081721)

Powerhead: Hydor Koralia Nano Evolution 425 GPH (http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/store/products/pumps-and-plumbing/powerheads-and-submersible-pumps/hydor-koralia/hydor-koralia-evolution-aquarium-powerheads/hydor-koralia-nano-evolution-425-gph.html)

Sand: CaribSea® Aragamax Select Aragonite (http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=11147301)

Salt: Undecided on which to use. I am between the Instant Ocean Reef Crystals (http://www.petco.com/product/113566/Instant-Ocean-Reef-Crystals.aspx?CoreCat=certona-_-ProductListTopRated_Fish_4-_-Instant%20Ocean%20Reef%20Crystals-113566) or the Red Sea Coral Pro Salt (http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/store/products/aquarium-salt-mix/red-sea-coral-pro-salt.html)

RO system: The Enterprise – Economy Space Saver RO System (http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/store/the-enterprise-economy-space-saver-ro-system.html) (((I know this doesn't have a DI part, but like I said, money is pretty tight right now. I also was looking at this RO/DI filter (http://www.ebay.com/itm/50-G-Aquarium-Reef-RO-DI-5stage-Reverse-Osmosis-Water-/110619193307?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item19c16aefdb). I don't know which one to go with.)))

I also will be purchasing a hydrometer, API Saltwater Master Liquid Test kit, live rock of course, and a few bins to hold and make the water.

I know I need a light fixture, but I can't seem to find one that will fit my tank. Can anyone help me with this?

Again, suggestions are welcome.

[Andrew]

[welcome]

Glad to have you aboard! I would recommend using a HOB skimmer from day 1. You'll be surprised as to what it will pull from the water after adding sand and rock to the tank. A HOB fuge is a great idea and will be very beneficial for your tank. As for the light you'll have to work around the strange length of the tank. Ever consider a 20 gallon tall?

[RAWRRitsEDWINN]

Thanks. I will definitely consider adding a HOB skimmer to my list. Any good, but cheap, ones you know of?

And for the tank size, I considered this 25 gallon one (http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=11164163&lmdn=Fish+Aquariums+%26amp%3B+Bowls) because its bigger, and it includes a stand, but then I realized I like the longer look of the 20 gallon tank. If I was going to get the 25 gallon one, wouldn't that hood that comes with it have to be replaced with a different light fixture? Like one that doesn't cover the tank?

[RAWRRitsEDWINN]

Any other suggestions?

[HaKs310]

Since you will be cycling your tank for a month, why don't you skip the lights for a bit and pick up this RO/Di unit:
http://www.amazon.com/Aqueon-Coralife-05692-Pure-Flo-50-Gallon/dp/B0006JKO9W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332917909&sr=8-1

I would personally skip the fuge and run some chemical filtration in either filter you choose. Or just ditch the filters completely.

As far as a skimmer, I know a lot of people like to run the AquaC Remora.
http://www.marinedepot.com/AquaC_Remora_Hang_On_Protein_Skimmer_Hang_On_Spray_Injection_Protein_Skimmers-AquaC-AC3111-FIPSHOSI-vi.html

What type of corals are you planning to keep in the future?

[sandwi54]

I would skip a HOB power filter and instead run just a HOB skimmer. I use AquaC Remora and it works great. You can find a used one for $60-70 on craigslist.

Also, I would get the 29g instead of 20g. It has the same footprint and essentially 50% more water volume, which will alleviate the outcome of mistakes you make (trust me, you will make them). More water volume is always better. If you have the cash, I would even get the standard 40g breeder tank. It has a much better footprint (18" wide instead of 12" on the 20g or 29g) and will allow much better aquascaping and fish selections.

One comment I can give you is that if you are tight on money, save up and buy good equipment the first time. Many of us try to go the cheap route when we first started, but almost always end up having to buy better ones down the road, and essentially spending more money. Don't make the same mistake.

RODI only costs a little bit more than RO, so I can't see the reason for getting an RO. You're better off saving up that extra $35 and get a full RODI unit.

For the heater, I would get an eheim jager. Aqueon is #*$&@.

[RAWRRitsEDWINN]

Since you will be cycling your tank for a month, why don't you skip the lights for a bit and pick up this RO/Di unit:
http://www.amazon.com/Aqueon-Coralife-05692-Pure-Flo-50-Gallon/dp/B0006JKO9W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1332917909&sr=8-1

I would personally skip the fuge and run some chemical filtration in either filter you choose. Or just ditch the filters completely.

As far as a skimmer, I know a lot of people like to run the AquaC Remora.
http://www.marinedepot.com/AquaC_Remora_Hang_On_Protein_Skimmer_Hang_On_Spray_Injection_Protein_Skimmers-AquaC-AC3111-FIPSHOSI-vi.html

What type of corals are you planning to keep in the future?

I plan on buying this pack (http://www.petco.com/product/106490/Insta-Reef-Soft-Coral-Pack.aspx?CoreCat=LiveFishHPSaltwaterPackages)in the future.

EDIT: Actually, I'm actually thinking about getting the 40g instead. Would this one (http://www.petsmart.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3804450&lmdn=Fish+Aquariums+%26amp%3B+Bowls)be good, since it comes with a hood/lights and a glass top?

I would skip a HOB power filter and instead run just a HOB skimmer. I use AquaC Remora and it works great. You can find a used one for $60-70 on craigslist.

Also, I would get the 29g instead of 20g. It has the same footprint and essentially 50% more water volume, which will alleviate the outcome of mistakes you make (trust me, you will make them). More water volume is always better. If you have the cash, I would even get the standard 40g breeder tank. It has a much better footprint (18" wide instead of 12" on the 20g or 29g) and will allow much better aquascaping and fish selections.

One comment I can give you is that if you are tight on money, save up and buy good equipment the first time. Many of us try to go the cheap route when we first started, but almost always end up having to buy better ones down the road, and essentially spending more money. Don't make the same mistake.

RODI only costs a little bit more than RO, so I can't see the reason for getting an RO. You're better off saving up that extra $35 and get a full RODI unit.

For the heater, I would get an eheim jager. Aqueon is #*$&@.

Ok. I will get the 29g one instead.

Would this RO/DI unit (http://www.purelyh2o.com/index.php/h2o-test-meters.html?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=369&category_id=82)be good?

[RAWRRitsEDWINN]

I have decided to get a 40 gallon tank. It looks pretty long from the picture. I just need a light to go on it. Can someone help me find one?

The dimensions of the tank are 36"L x 18"W x 16"H.

[sponger0]

Ok so you are looking at a 40 breeder. Easy tank to find. Its extremely common.

Skip the hydrometer and save your money for a refractometer. Much more accurate.

I would also say go for doing a sump. Drilling a tank isnt hard. Also you can hide all your equipment. And also I think in sump skimmers would be more affective. Maybe Im wrong. But definately get a skimmer. It will help keep the water clean.

If you go with a 40 breeder, youll need bigger powerheads and get a good heater.

[RAWRRitsEDWINN]

So I should just forget about the HOB filters and just go with a sump? Would a 10g fuge sump be fine?

How many watts of the heater should I get? I'm going to get the Eheim Jager.

[HaKs310]

That 40b will work. You can run those lights until you come up with the money for a nice set. I would remove the glass top for gas exchange though. I would also run two of those Koralia Nanos.

A sump would be optimal. Drilling a tank really isn't that hard and there are a couple of DIY threads that will help you out. As mentioned, it will really clean up the display tank and provide ample space for a fuge/skimmer/chemical filtration. Search around for sump design that fits your needs.

Heater should be in the 150-200w range.

+1 on the refractometer.

I know it is exciting setting up a new tank, but the biggest piece of advise is to take it slow and plan everything before buying anything. You don't want to rush and put together a tank that in the end you will not like or spend more money upgrading.

[RAWRRitsEDWINN]

That is exactly why I'm asking all the questions before I make my purchases. Ok so now here's my new checklist. Please give advice if you see something wrong.

Tank: 40 gallon tank

Filter: Will be using a fuge sump. Should I still buy a filter to be on the safe side?

Heater: Jager Thermostat Heater 200W

Powerhead: Hydor Koralia Nano Evolution 425 GPH x 2

Sand: CaribSea® Aragamax Select Aragonite

Salt: Undecided on which to use. I am between the Instant Ocean Reef Crystals or the Red Sea Coral Pro Salt

RO/DI system: The Optima Dual Carbon Valueline with Catalytic Carbon (http://www.purelyh2o.com/index.php/h2o-test-meters.html?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=369&category_id=82&vmcchk=1)

Sump: 10g tank (I need good return pump for this, and a good overflow. Could someone recommend them to me please?)

[sponger0]

For a sump Id go with something larger. 29 gallon.

Return pump, a mag 5 would be just fine.

[RAWRRitsEDWINN]

Would I be better buying one of those sumps and converting it into a fuge?

http://www.aqueonproducts.com/products/proflex-sump.htm#

or just forget about the fuge and use this wet/dry filter?

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/prod_display.cfm?pcatid=18367

[TL1000RSquid]

I think the aqueons are a couple hundred bucks, much cheaper to DIY, using a 20l or 29g tank.

[HaKs310]

Go with the 20L or 29, same foot print, 29 is just taller.

You can do a fuge in the sump if you want to go that route, but also factor in the space for a skimmer, heater and return pump. You won't need any of the filters you mentioned earlier.

Check out the Reef Discussion forum, I know I seen two guys doing build threads with 49Bs and a sump.

[sandwi54]

If you decide to go with a sump, I'd just go with the 20g tank that you originally wanted to get. You may not even need baffles at all!

It's your choice to go with a sump or not. I have three tanks: 225g FOWLR, 75g FOWLR, and 27g nano reef. Only my 225g FOWLR has a sump and the other two don't. The 75g and 27g use the AquaC Remora and Hagen Vuetech heaters and don't look bad at all. The trick is to hide the equipment with aquascaping (live rocks).

Also, I wouldn't worry about the fuge at this moment, unless you're doing a sump. In that case, you'll need to create a fuge chamber with glass baffles. Just measure the dimensions and have them cut at home depot, and glue them to the tank with aquarium-safe silicone.

[SKurj]

Careful... looking like a runaway train in here... next it will be a 150g reef with separate sump, separate fuge and a sunroom..

I am starting my first SW tank, started out planning a 20g fowlr, now its going to be a 40g long reef. Sticking with sumpless to try and keep it simple, added a hang on back skimmer (SWC mini HOT) and have a CPR HOB refugium on order. Otherwise most expensive part is the Tunze Auto Top Off to install this weekend. SPent alot more than I expected to or wanted to, but it sure is fun!

Oh yeah.. and already have a big setup in the planning stages in the back of my mind...

[RAWRRitsEDWINN]

If you decide to go with a sump, I'd just go with the 20g tank that you originally wanted to get. You may not even need baffles at all!

It's your choice to go with a sump or not. I have three tanks: 225g FOWLR, 75g FOWLR, and 27g nano reef. Only my 225g FOWLR has a sump and the other two don't. The 75g and 27g use the AquaC Remora and Hagen Vuetech heaters and don't look bad at all. The trick is to hide the equipment with aquascaping (live rocks).

Also, I wouldn't worry about the fuge at this moment, unless you're doing a sump. In that case, you'll need to create a fuge chamber with glass baffles. Just measure the dimensions and have them cut at home depot, and glue them to the tank with aquarium-safe silicone.

If I decide to not go with the sump, should I run 2 filters? or just 1 filter would be fine?

[HaKs310]

If yo don't go with the sump, you will be fine with just a skimmer.

You will just need to make sure you keep up with the water changes, watch the amount of fish, and what you feed.

[JEC11718]

reading the posts here i am wondering how you are going to decide on equipment with all the great suggestions....here is mine....I have a 20g tall and it was fowlr for over a year...adding a few mushrooms now makes it a nano reef....not exactly...lol.. My tank had no water changes for that entire first year...I didnt buy the tank setup with fish and rock till it was over a yr old....It had no skimmer and no special lighting except the standard fluorescent cheap light....three fish and some LR/ls. I didnt have the funds for a sump or skimmer...easiest way to maintain the nutrient levels is with frequent wc every week 20%...I dont even have a ro/di....I buy my sw from the lfs and topoff with distilled water...please no flamers..it works for me. If you are going to start a fowlr ..skip the lighting go cheap. skip ro/di, buy from lfs premade sw/ ro/di fw. save money for those in the future...sump wise get or dont your preference...are you comfortable with drilling your tank??...if not spend your hard earned cash on a RR..(reefready) drilling is already done... I have a ac70 for flow/filtering big particles but LR is for biological filtering. I just recently added a powerhead.... and the tank never had a heater till I bought one for it.....room temp was its norm. Research and plan...draw on paper what you need/want and then buy the best you can afford...used is good but new lasts longer!!! hope this helps and sorry for my rambling!!!! happy reefing! Josh

[RAWRRitsEDWINN]

^ Thanks for that. Really helps.

I know this is not the same as RO/DI water, but if I buy distilled water, and use Seachem Prime on it, would that be fine too? I know RO/DI would be best, but would distilled water + prime work out?

[RAWRRitsEDWINN]

The 40g tank that I want is 36" long.

I am looking at either one of those lighting fixtures. Which one would be best?

http://www.petco.com/Shop/Product.aspx?sku=1320556&CoreCat=Related_Products

OR

http://www.petco.com/Shop/Product.aspx?sku=1272993&CoreCat=Related_Products

[Speaker73]

I honestly know diddly squat about SW but I have some experience with FW planted tanks and I suggest getting the coralife if you have to choose between those two.

[HaKs310]

I have two views on this one. If you are just keeping it a FOWLR for a while I would not worry about the lighting until you are ready for corals.

Now if you want to upgrade lights now, I would just pony up the cash.

I ran this fixture on a custom 30g a while back and it was a nice little fixture. Built-in timers and individual reflectors. If you want to go T5:
http://www.marinedepot.com/AquaticLife_T5_HO_4_Lamp_Light_Fixtures_w_Lunar_LEDs_24_Inch_T5_Fluorescent_Light_Fixtures-AquaticLife-AK01035-FILTFIT54U-vi.html

Personally, I would go the LED route though. I am pretty confident 24 LEDs should do the trick on that size tank to keep just about any coral.
A kit for 12LEDs is around $85-95 plus a heatsink, $40-60. Down the road when you have the extra money you can purchase the other 12 LED kit.